Stress, social support and coping strategies : what influence on perceived parental self-efficacy of primiparous mothers?

Following comprehensive and semi-structured interviews, (N=30) this article questions the life changes arising in mothers six weeks after the birth of the first child. The birth of a child reflects emotional, behavioral and cognitive changes, requiring consideration and adjustments by the mothers. We believe there are a number of factors that could impact the perceived self-efficacy and the emotional health of the mothers, and the relationship between mother and child. The research indicates areas of stress encountered by mothers and the strategies put in place by mothers to cope and overcome the stress problem. This article also questions the action taken to reduce stress by the medical team and in particularly the midwife during the birth process. The results show that all stressful events have not the same impacts on the perceived self-efficacy. Breast feeding and the crying of the babies appear to have the most impact We believe, professional social support has a strong influence on the mothers perceived self-efficacy. As well, it is important to consider the value given to people in charge of support. Thus, the research indicates the complex link between stress, social support and coping strategies and leads to a complex transactional pattern.